Radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive, and hazardous gas produced from the breakdown of uranium in the soil. It can seep into homes through cracks in the foundation and other openings, leading to elevated radon levels inside the home.
This is deeply concerning for homeowners across the United States because radon poisoning is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking, and it’s estimated that radon exposure is responsible for over 20,000 deaths each year.
Even though radon is an odorless and tasteless gas, it’s important to get your home tested for it to ensure your family is safe from the long-term threats that radon poses. Why is radon mitigation especially important for residents of South Dakota? Read on for more information.
High Radon Levels in South Dakota
South Dakota ranks second nationwide for the highest average radon levels across the state, with many areas in the state having radon levels that are well above the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) action level of 4 picoCuries, or pCi/L.
According to the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the entire eastern portion of the state is classified as a Zone 1 (radon levels greater than 4 pCi/L), with the remaining balance a Zone 2 (2 – 4 pCi/L). There are no Zone 3s in South Dakota.
These elevated levels of radon can be dangerous to homeowners and their families, and South Dakota homeowners need to take action to mitigate their exposure to this harmful gas.
Health Risks Associated with Radon Exposure
The EPA has designated radon as a Class A carcinogen, meaning that it is a known human carcinogen. Radon exposure is a serious health concern for homeowners, and long-term exposure can increase one’s risk for lung cancer. According to the EPA and the U.S. Office of the Surgeon General, radon is responsible for more than 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the U.S., with more than 10 percent of radon-related cancer deaths occurring among non-smokers. For this reason, South Dakota homeowners need to take action to reduce their exposure to radon, especially if they have been living in their homes for several years.
Easy and Affordable Radon Mitigation Solutions
Fortunately, there are many effective and affordable radon mitigation solutions available to South Dakota homeowners. Radon mitigation systems work by preventing radon gas from entering the home through the foundation and other openings, and they can effectively reduce radon levels in the home to levels that are safe for human exposure.
These systems are easy to install, and they can be customized to meet the specific needs of your home.
Eliminate Your Radon Risk
Radon is a serious health concern for homeowners, and it’s important for homeowners to take action to reduce their exposure to this harmful gas. By installing a radon mitigation system, South Dakota homeowners can protect their families from the dangers of radon exposure, and ensure their homes are safe, healthy places to live.
If your home test kit indicates there is radon present in your home, or if you’d just like to go straight to a professional for a home air quality diagnosis, Radon Crew can help.
Contact us today to get your home tested for radon and we’ll develop the right radon mitigation plan for you.